Ask and Then Shut Up | Forward Tilt Podcast

When you’re new to sales or fundraising, you have the temptation to fill space after you make a big ask. It feels awkward to sit there in silence, but no matter how it feels, wait. Sit there and let the other person talk next.

No matter what the answer is, asking and then shutting up works because it leads to a clear reply. Even if it is a no, you will know where you sit, and you won’t be left interpreting what a “sounds good” style answer meant.

But ask and then shut up is more than just advice for salespeople.

It applies in your daily life in the asks you make of others. And it applies to your relationship with yourself as a valuable tool for gaining self-knowledge and resolving internal conflict.